Manchester United have reportedly agreed a £45million fee with Roma for France international midfielder Manu Kone, according to former United defender Rio Ferdinand. The development comes after United secured two midfield signings in less than a week, with Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos both arriving at Old Trafford.
Kone deal agreed, says Ferdinand
Speaking on his official YouTube channel, Rio Ferdinand claimed that Fabrizio Romano had confirmed the agreement. “Fabrizio Romano just confirmed that Man Utd have agreed a £45m fee for Kone from Roma, the French international midfielder,” Ferdinand said. However, Romano himself had previously only stated that United had made contact with Kone’s representatives, stopping short of confirming a club-to-club deal.
Kone, who impressed at the World Cup, would become the third midfield addition for manager Michael Carrick, who is believed to want a more defensively minded operator following Casemiro’s departure and the collapse of Ederson’s move from Atalanta. Santos, who joined from Chelsea for £50million, can play in that role but lacks experience.
Villa also in race for Kone
Aston Villa are also reported to be seriously interested in Kone, particularly after losing Tielemans to United. The Red Devils could further stoke rivalry with their Midlands opponents by beating them to Kone’s signature as well.
Joao Gomes leaves Wolves for medical
Meanwhile, Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes has left the club’s training camp to undergo a medical, but it is Aston Villa who have won the race for his signature, according to talkSPORT. Villa have agreed a £35million move for the Brazilian, matching the fee they received for Tielemans. The medical is scheduled for Friday.
Gomes, 25, had been close to joining Atletico Madrid before a disagreement with agent Jorge Mendes caused the deal to collapse. Villa quickly escalated their interest to reinvest the funds from Tielemans’ sale, especially after Amadou Onana suffered a serious injury at the World Cup.
United’s summer rebuild accelerates
United’s summer makeover has accelerated with two midfield signings in quick succession, and more movement is expected as the club prepares for its pre-season tour. The potential arrival of Kone would further strengthen an area that Carrick has identified as a priority.
